National Geographic: Environment website

National Geographic: Environment

http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/?source=NavEnvHome

“The Environment section of the National Geographic website has so many photos, quizzes, blogs, games and news to learn from and enjoy, that visitors will probably have to make a number of return visits. For those with only a little time, visitors absolutely must check out the link “News Blog: Greatest Nature Photos” under the “Environment News” heading near the top of the page. There visitors will see several of the 40 greatest nature photos that were chosen by a conservation photography organization in celebration of Earth Day 2010. “Test your Earth IQ” quizzes on backyard birds, Yosemite, pollution, natural disasters, and going green will keep visitors plenty busy, and the quizzes are also a great way to learn something new. The “NG in the Field” section reports on the grantees of National Geographic grants. Some of the projects include, “Big Cats Initiatives”, “Blue Holes Project”, and “Quintana Roo Underwater Cave Project”. [KMG]

Source: Univ. of Wisconsin, Scout Report — May 14, 2010

Atlas of Living Australia — free website

“Atlas of Living Australia
ala.org.au
With the aim of improving access to information about Australian plants, animals, and microorganisms, this site was publicly launched with government support in November 2010. And when Tropical Cyclone Yasi struck coastal Queensland on February 3, 2011, with winds of 185 mph, it proved a valuable tool for identifying the flora and fauna devastated in the region. A work in progress: you can search by species, many of which are unique to Australia–like the iconic lyrebird, the duck-billed platypus, or even the Tasmanian devil; create your own species distribution maps; check out photos, links, and data­sets; or learn how to become a contributor through an affiliated organization.”

BEST OF FREE REFERENCE Library Journal, April 19, 2011, LJXpress

By Brian E. Coutts & Cheryl LaGuardia